1982 Maserati Merak vs. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren
To start off, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1982 Maserati Merak. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1982 Maserati Merak would be higher. At 5,439 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren (618 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 460 more horse power than 1982 Maserati Merak. (158 HP @ 7100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren should accelerate faster than 1982 Maserati Merak. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren weights approximately 475 kg more than 1982 Maserati Merak. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren has automatic transmission and 1982 Maserati Merak has manual transmission. 1982 Maserati Merak will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1982 Maserati Merak | 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren | |
| Make | Maserati | Mercedes-Benz |
| Model | Merak | SLR McLaren |
| Year Released | 1982 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5439 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 3 valves |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 618 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1350 kg | 1825 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4340 mm | 4660 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1260 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2710 mm |
